Google [GOOG] has added a new feature to Google Maps for Android devices. The new feature lets you navigate indoors around a building and is even capable of telling you what floor you are on.
The reason for the new feature is that when you navigate to a destination such as from your home to the airport, you are taken door to door. With the latest version of Maps (6.0) you can now see exactly where you need to go when you get to the door of the airport. Accuracy is available within several meters and the software can detect when you move floors.
Detailed floor plans automatically appear when you’re viewing the map and zoomed in on a building where indoor map data is available. The familiar “blue dot” icon indicates your location within several meters, and when you move up or down a level in a building with multiple floors, the interface will automatically update to display which floor you’re on. All this is achieved by using an approach similar to that of ‘My Location’ for outdoor spaces, but fine tuned for indoors.
The service isn’t 100% complete yet as it will take a lot of effort to get the internal maps of all buildings, but Google has managed to team up with IKEA, Home Depot and a number of other stores and malls as well as a bunch of airports.
Business owners can also apply and submit floor plans to Google which in turn, can then also be included on the Google Maps service.
The new version is available for download now in the Android Market.
Speak Your Mind
You must be logged in to post a comment.